Birmingham’s newest open space has been officially unveiled in Alum Rock.

Kids can play away in Birmingham’s newest open space which has just been officially unveiled in Alum Rock.

MP Liam Byrne helped declare open the facilities, which stand next to Parkfield Community School.

Headteacher Hazel Pulley said the partnership between the school, residents and councillors had placed the new park at the heart of the community.

“It’s worked brilliantly,” she said.

“The unique position of this park – surrounded by new housing and attached to a popular school – creates a safe play area.

“During the day, part of the park is locked off so the school has access to it.

“We can use it for sports on the all-weather pitch, we can use it at lunch and after-school clubs, of which we have 58. After 4pm the school gate is locked and the park is opened for the community and the shared ownership that has created this unique situation.

“I drive home past the park and it’s so nice to everybody using, it’s wonderful. It’s created a safe play area but it’s also raised the social conscience of all who use it.”

Ms Pulley said the park had been open for use for three months and was still in excellent condition with no graffiti or damage.

She added: “The children were part of the design team and had a little research group.

“They also planted bulbs during the finishing stages and have been part of it all the way along so there’s a sense of ownership.”

Consultation with the community will take place in September to decide how another £200,000 should be spent on the park. The cash came from Section 106 funding from nearby housing developments.